How to Disassemble a PC
- 1). Turn off the computer and all connected devices, such as printers and speakers. Unplugging a device while it is still on can cause power surges that can damage the hardware.
- 2). Disconnect all cables and devices that are connected to the computer. Some cables may be secured to the computer, such as the one going to the monitor or screen. Be sure to unscrew these before attempting to remove them.
- 3). Visually inspect the computer before moving it. If you try to move a computer whose case has not been secured, you may end up dropping the computer and damaging not only it but yourself. Look for a safe surface to handle. Some computer cases may have hidden, razor sharp edges.
- 4). Place the computer on a flat, accessible, surface and remove the case. There are many different case designs. Some provide a quick-release mechanism to open a side panel. Others may require you to remove the computer faceplate before you can remove the case. A common design is a one piece wraparound that gets secured to the back of the computer chassis using three to four case screws. When in doubt, consult your computer user manual for specific instructions.
- 5). Put on your mask. Visually inspect the interior of the computer, being careful to not disturb any of the dust, debris or animal feces that may be in the case. If there are signs of any foreign matter, carefully move the computer outdoors or to a well ventilated area. Using the compressed air (do not shake it or hold it upside down), carefully blow the foreign matter from the case.
- 6). Return the computer to your work area. Before continuing, ensure that you are working in a static-free area, on a static retardant mat or have the ability to ground yourself before touching any computer hardware. If you are unsure as to whether you are grounded or can't afford the specialized anti-static equipment, touch the bare metal of the computer case with your bare skin before handling any piece of computer hardware. This will disperse any static charge that may have built up.
- 7). Disconnect any and all cables in the computer. This will free up a lot of working space in most computers. Note that not all of the cables will be able to be removed. Some are permanently attached to the power supply and the chassis.
- 8). Visually inspect the internal workings of the computer. Some computer cases require that the hardware, such as hard drives, floppy drives and CD/DVD ROMs, be secured directly to the chassis using screws. Others provide quick release mechanisms. If you cannot determine how your hardware has been secured, consult your computer manual before proceeding. Typical computers have the hardware directly screwed into the chassis. If this is the case, find a matching screwdriver from your computer tool kit. However, if the hardware has been secured, remove it, one piece at a time, placing the hardware on a flat, non-static surface. The alternative and preferred method is to place each piece directly in a separate anti-static storage bag.
- 9). Release the RAM memory module(s) from the motherboard. There should be a quick release on each side of the RAM. Pushing down on the release will disconnect the RAM and push it up and away from the motherboard for safe removal. Place these in their own anti-static bag or in a safe, anti-static area.
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Consult your computer manual for the specifications on removing the CPU and heat-sink. CPUs are fragile and should be handled with care. You should not have to use much force, if any, to remove it. The heat-sink will sit on the CPU and will be connected with a sticky substance used to maximize heat transfer. Carefully put them aside on an anti-static surface or in an anti-static bag. Take special care not to damage any of the gold pins that may be sticking out of the bottom, depending on the type of CPU you have. If any of these pins are damaged or broken, the CPU will need to be replaced. - 11
Determine how the power supply has been attached to the chassis. Again, there may be a quick release, but more likely, it has been secured to the case using case screws. Open your tool kit and find a matching screwdriver. Remove the power supply from the computer, being careful not to damage the motherboard. - 12
Visually inspect your motherboard. You should be able to see a number of screws that are holding the motherboard in place. Carefully find a matching screwdriver and remove the screws. When done, remove the motherboard and place it on an anti-static surface or in an anti-static bag.